Men's Ascender II Hooded Softshell Jacket - Water & Wind Resistant

In this review of the Men's Ascender II Hooded Softshell Jacket the bottom line is simple: it is a dependable, all-purpose shell for men who need light weather protection without fuss. The jacket earns that recommendation with a water- and wind-resistant shell treated with OMNI-SHIELD that sheds light rain and resists stains, plus a comfortable regular fit that works over layers. For someone who wants a practical jacket for trail days, commute, or weekend wear, the Ascender II delivers reliable performance and everyday comfort.

Key Features

• OMNI-SHIELD protection: The treated exterior repels light precipitation and resists stains so the jacket stays drier and cleaner in everyday conditions.
• Soft power shell: A water- and wind-resistant outer layer gives protection on blustery trail days or during city commutes without feeling stiff.
• Zippered pockets: Chest and hand zip pockets secure essentials while on the move, keeping small items protected from the elements.
• Adjustable hem and chin guard: The drawcord hem and soft chin guard help lock out cold and add comfort where the jacket meets the neck.
• Comfortable regular fit: The classic fit allows room for a midlayer and moves easily during activity without feeling restrictive.

Who It's For

The Ascender II is aimed at men who want a versatile shell for active days and casual use: hikers who need light rain and wind resistance, commuters seeking a neat, weather-ready outer layer, and anyone wanting a comfortable jacket that looks good off-trail. Its regular fit and extended sizing options make it suitable for a wide range of body types and for wearing over sweaters or fleeces.

Those who need a fully waterproof, seam-sealed shell for heavy downpours or a highly technical mountaineering jacket should look elsewhere; this design is optimized for light precipitation, stain resistance, and everyday warmth rather than extreme wet-weather performance.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Well-constructed and comfortable, customers report good warmth and a pleasant hand feel.
• Effective weather protection for light rain and wind thanks to OMNI-SHIELD and the soft shell exterior.
• Handy pocket placement and zippers provide secure storage for essentials while active.
• Classic, clean look that works on trails or around town.

Cons

• Fit is mixed for some buyers-those wanting a slim, tailored silhouette may find the regular fit roomier than expected.
• Pocket sizing receives mixed feedback, so larger items may not fit comfortably in all pockets.

Specifications

Brand	Columbia
Model	Ascender II Hooded Softshell Jacket
Weather treatment	OMNI-SHIELD for light rain and stain resistance
Shell properties	Water- and wind-resistant softshell
Fit	Regular fit with extended and tall sizing available
Features	Zippered chest and hand pockets, soft chin guard, drawcord adjustable hem

Our Verdict

The Ascender II Hooded Softshell Jacket is a practical, value-oriented choice for men needing dependable protection from light rain and wind with comfortable, everyday wearability. It is especially well suited to hikers, commuters, and anyone who wants a neat outer layer that performs in typical wet-weather and cold conditions without the complexity of a technical waterproof shell.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this jacket fully waterproof?
The Ascender II is water- and wind-resistant with OMNI-SHIELD for light precipitation, but it is not a fully seam-sealed waterproof shell for heavy rain.

Can you layer under this jacket?
Yes, the regular fit is designed to accommodate midlayers comfortably, making it easy to adapt for colder conditions.

Are there tall or extended sizes available?
Yes, Columbia offers this jacket in extended and tall sizing options to accommodate a wider range of fits.